How to Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice Latte

A typical pumpkin spice latte is loaded with artificial flavors and colors, in addition to being high in fat and sugar. By making one at home, you save yourself unwanted calories and get a nutrient boost instead. Watch this video to see how to make your own!

March 14, 2016

Let’s free-associate for a minute. If I say “autumn,” and you reply, “pumpkin spice latte,” good news: Your favorite fall beverage just got a health upgrade.

Starbucks and Panera Bread came out with announcements this week that they’re changing up their PSL recipes; both restaurants will now make them with real pumpkin. On top of that, Starbucks says they’ll omit caramel coloring, while Panera will serve drinks made “entirely without artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, preservatives or high-fructose corn syrup,” The Associated Pressreports.

That’s certainly a plus, no matter which you prefer. But we decided to go one better, and give you a pumpkin spice latte that you can enjoy any time of year—at home. Plus, when you make your own, you control the level of sweetness and spice and whether to use organic ingredients. Plug in that blender and get ready to sip your way to pumpkin perfection.

Preparation

1. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice and salt and cook, stirring, until warmed and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Whisk in vanilla and milk and cook, whisking, until warmed through, 1 to 2 minutes.

2. Transfer pumpkin mixture to a high-speed blender and add coffee, honey and butter, if desired. Blend until well mixed and frothy. Drink immediately.